Introduced in February, TI's InstaSPIN-FOC removes the need for a mechanical motor rotor sensor, reduces system costs and improves operation using TI's new software encoder (sensorless observer) algorithm, FAST™ (flux, angle, speed and torque), embedded in the read-only-memory (ROM) on TI's 32-bit C2000™ Piccolo™ microcontrollers. InstaSPIN-FOC also eases development and complexity for designers — even those with limited motor control experience — and enables premium solutions that improve motor efficiency, performance and reliability in all variable speed and variable load motor applications. This motor technology joins the previously introduced InstaSPIN-MOTION and InstaSPIN-BLDC technologies and will be followed with future InstaSPIN variations to make motor control development easier and more efficient.

Save months of research and design time. Use the revolutionary new observer to feed the FOC algorithm. The FAST observer has already been designed, built, tested and coded within the memory of select C2000TM PiccoloTM MCUs.

Offer near encoder performance. View accurate angle estimates with respect to the true flux axis of the machine. Typical performance of the angle estimator is usually less than one degree off of the actual flux axis, depending on speed. This allows you to eliminate the encoder in many applications where it was previously required.

Eliminate need for other system sensors. Verify how the FAST software observer accurately tracks motor torque, motor speed and motor flux to eliminate separate sensors for these system parameters.

Accommodate a multitude of three-phase motors. BLDC, SPM and AC induction motors can all be tested with the simulation (IPM motors are also supported with the InstaSPIN-FOC solution).

Facilitate a quick startup period. The FAST observer quickly adapts to chaotic startup conditions and can transition to closed-loop sensorless control usually within one cycle of the AC waveforms.

Pricing and availability Access the InstaSPIN-FOC online simulation tool for free today. InstaSPIN-FOC is available today on the production-ready, 90 MHz, 32-bit floating point Piccolo F2806xF microcontrollers starting at $6.70 USD per 10 Ku. InstaSPIN-FOC will be featured on several other Piccolo microcontrollers in the near future. After testing the technology through the web based simulation tool, designers can begin their latest InstaSPIN-FOC motor designs with a low-voltage, low-current motor control kit for $299 (DRV8312-69M-KIT), low-voltage, high-current motor control kit for $299 (DRV8301-69M-KIT) or high-voltage motor control kit for $699 (TMDSHVMTRINSPIN). Previously purchased (latest hardware revision) versions of these motor control kits work with the modular InstaSPIN™-FOC-enabled Piccolo controlCARD for $99 (TMDSCNCD28069MISO).

About Texas InstrumentsTexas Instruments Incorporated (TI) is a global semiconductor design and manufacturing company that develops analog ICs and embedded processors. By employing the world's brightest minds, TI creates innovations that shape the future of technology. TI is helping more than 100,000 customers transform the future, today. Learn more at www.ti.com.

TrademarksInstaSPIN, C2000, Piccolo, MSP, Tiva and MotorWare are trademarks of Texas Instruments Incorporated. All registered trademarks and other trademarks belong to their respective owners.